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Archive for the ‘AUSA’ Category

AUSA 24 – SIG SAUER XM250 with Quick Change Barrel

Monday, October 21st, 2024

This is an XM250 in 6.8x51mm. Essentially, it’s the same Automatic Rifle the Army adopted under the Next Generation Squad Weapons program with one exception, it has a quick change barrel. That feature, makes it quite suitable to fulfill the role as a sustained fire, belt-fed machine gun.

This isn’t a new characteristic. It was part of the original design, but the Army didn’t want a quick change barrel as part of NGSW. So, in order to save weight, it was left off. This version of the SIG light machine gun is referred to as the “World” configuration as it is how the gun is marketed to everyone else, except the US Army.

What Makes It Different

As you can see, it is configured here with no top cover over the barrel to facilitate quick barrel changes. However, SIG tells me there is a hinged cover available, as seen on the MG338.

The barrel is locked in place via two buttons. It can’t be removed or secured in place without simultaneously depressing the rocker and secondary locks. Additionally, the plunger must be depressed to fully engage the handle lock.

Here you can see the lugs on the barrel which lock the barrel into the receiver.

Why It Matters Now

The Squad Arms and Ammunition Configuration study led to the development of the 6.8 cartridge and Next Generation Squad Weapons. Afterwards, a study was conducted for the Platoon called, aptly enough, the PAAC study. Although it was completed well over a year ago, Army leaders continue to evaluate the study’s findings to decide on a path forward.

One of the key decisions is how to proceed regarding a machine gun for the platoon. Options under discussion include adopting the 6.8 common cartridge architecture for the role, as well as seeking out an additional cartridge such as the 338 Norma Mag option currently under adoption by USSOCOM.

Regardless of the caliber choice, fielding of the initial XM250 Automatic Rifles to the first units is already highlighting the disparity between the new 6.8 round and its 7.62 predecessor. The current M240s are heavier, offer reduced range and lower delivered energy on target than NGSW.

As of right now, NGSW is only intended for the close combat force consisting of Infantry, Cav Scouts, Combat Engineers, SOF, and select enablers. That means there are just over 13,000 XM250s being fielded to replace M249 SAWs in those formations. This leaves tens of thousands of SAWs across the Army. Chances are good, those will be replaced with XM250s over the coming years. However, the issue is even larger for the M240. No matter the desired course of action for caliber of choice post-PAAC study decision, the Army has to decide what to do with the ~120,000 M240s in inventory.

Many have suggested that they simply reconfigure them to fire the new composite case 6.8X51mm. The thought process is that the Army already owns them and they are serial numbers on the books; no need to buy new guns.

Considering the number of guns involved, it will easily take five years or more to develop a barrel and operating system capable of reliable, long-term firing of the high pressure 6.8 cartridge and to actually reconfigure the guns. It is likely that up to 20% of the guns currently in service ought to be coded out and replaced. They are old and have seen a lot of service over the past 30 years. If the Army does, in fact need all 120,000 guns, that means they’ll have to purchase more M240s to replace the worn-out examples of an almost 70-year-old design. Detractors of this plan ask why the Army would want to buy more old guns that they’ve already decided to replace.

Adoption of a new gun for the sustained fire role is likely a more cost effective solution in the long-term. If the Army desires to transition to 338 NM that has to happen because there’s no gun currently in the inventory to do it. If they don’t, one option is to pure fleet the XM250, with quick change barrels, replacing both M249 SAWs and M240 MGs. In many ways, it’s an easy button. This moves all belt-fed guns to one caliber and one platform across the formation, simplifying doctrine, employment, training and logistics. It also makes the entire force more lethal, and reliable, with new guns which will last longer than modified legacy guns. It’s also a faster option than starting a new program.

No matter the near-term path forward, a version of the XM250 with quick change barrel will inevitably enter Army service.

2024 Association of the United States Army Annual Meeting

Monday, October 21st, 2024

Last week I attended the Association of the United States Army’s annual meeting in Washington, DC. I chose to delay my coverage until this week because the show was so overwhelming, with lots to see and multiple meetings per day. I also wanted to take some time to absorb what I had experienced.

The Army is moving at a speed I haven’t seen since the invasion of Afghanistan. In fact, the event had the same vibe as during the peak of the war, around 2008, except right now, thanks to an ineffective Congress, there’s no money. Continuing Resolutions don’t engender confidence in programs, let alone properly fund Operations and Maintenance coffers which allow the Army to conduct its day-to-day mission. It’s a significant challenge.

The Army I encountered last week is different than the one that fought the GWOT. It is rapidly updating its capabilities with new systems, despite budget woes. If you’ve heard of Transformation in Contact, you’d have seen it happening last week; at least for industry. The convention center was packed wall-to-wall with drones and new combat vehicles, all powered by Artificial Intelligence. The Army wants all of it, and more.

While I’ll a touch a bit in those emerging capabilities this week, we’ve got some good old fashioned soldier systems coverage as well.

GM Defense Debuted “Next Gen” Tactical Vehicle at AUSA 2024

Friday, October 18th, 2024

GM Defense, a subsidiary of General Motors (GM), unveiled its new “Next Gen” tactical vehicle prototype at this week’s AUSA 2024, the annual meeting and exposition of the Association of the U.S. Army.

Based on the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD ZR2 truck, the rugged and durable Next Gen combines GM’s 2.8L Duramax® turbo-diesel engine with a 12-module battery pack, in addition to drive motors for the front and rear axles that enable Silent Drive and Silent Watch, technologies that make the vehicles harder to detect. 

Side view of GM Defense’s Next Gen tactical vehicle

The technologies enable stealthy ingress and egress through high threat zones, with onboard power to support high-energy-demand sensors, shooters, and Soldier kit. The vehicles offer active and passive safety features, including roll-over protection, anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, four- and five-point seat belt harnesses, and 360-degree camera capabilities. 

“Our Next Gen vehicle is a game-changing mobility solution that delivers tactically significant capabilities by integrating GM’s proven commercial technologies,” said Steve duMont, president of GM Defense. “This rugged and highly capable diesel-powered vehicle offers tactical advantages, such as Silent Operations, exportable power, and increased range with extended mission duration. Our warfighters deserve the latest technology that industry can offer in order to gain and maintain competitive advantage over our adversaries. Our Next Gen mobility solution can be customized and fielded now.”

Next Gen offers the following tactical advantages:

• Silent Drive and Silent Watch, enabling low acoustic and thermal signatures;

• Exportable power capable of charging mission systems;

• Tactically significant range with extended mission duration;

• Designed to be autonomy-ready with manned and unmanned options; and

• Add-on armor capable.

In addition, Next Gen provides sustainment benefits, including:

• Fuel demand reduction;

• The ability to use existing JP8 fuel infrastructure;

• Lower maintenance requirements from reduced parts and subsystems in the overall propulsion system; and

• Reduced logistics tail for fuel, batteries, and vehicle parts.

“Next Gen’s ‘wow’ factor is right behind the wheel,” said John ‘JD’ Johnson, vice president of GM Defense’s Government Solutions and Strategy Division. “Customers need to drive this highly capable vehicle to see, feel, and hear the benefits. Next Gen fundamentally changes the discussion around modern mobility through the tactical benefits delivered by its propulsion system, including its ability to address the power gap in the formation. This highly capable tactical vehicle leverages billions of dollars of investments GM has made in R&D and innovation to enhance warfighter capability. We encourage customers to test drive it so that we can get these capabilities fielded immediately.”

Next Gen is offered in two-, four-, and six-seat configurations. The vehicle will be optimized to support multi-mission capabilities, including command and control, launched effects, network extension, counter unmanned aerial systems anti-armor, casualty evacuation, and other critical missions. 

Barrett Firearms Manufacturing Inc. Unveils Squad Support Rifle System (SSRS) at AUSA Annual Meeting

Tuesday, October 15th, 2024

MURFREESBORO, TENNESSEE — Barrett Firearms Manufacturing Inc. has unveiled the Squad Support Rifle System (SSRS), its entrant into the U.S. Army’s Precision Grenadier System (PGS) Program, at this year’s Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C.  

As a part of Barrett’s continued commitment to delivering innovative, battle-proven solutions for U.S. and allied soldiers, the SSRS is designed to meet the evolving needs of modern combat.

Barrett has teamed with MARS Inc., an innovative tech start-up and finalist in the U.S. Army’s xTechSoldier Lethality competition. This strategic collaboration brings together two innovators in soldier lethality systems to develop a next-generation 30mm support rifle.

“We are excited to be working with Barrett, the world’s premier soldier weapons manufacturer, to mature our 30mm Support Rifle System for the U.S. Army’s PGS Program,” Michael Merino, President of MARS Inc, said. “Together, we’re developing a solution that will greatly enhance the soldier’s ability to engage a wide range of battlefield threats.”

The SSRS will offer soldiers an advanced counter-defilade capability and the ability to defeat Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and dismounted soldier targets. Designed for the U.S. Army’s upcoming PGS solicitation expected in FY2026, Barrett will head a team of industry-leading partners to develop a cutting-edge system optimized for lethality and soldier safety.

“Barrett will bring together a team of innovative partners to deliver a PGS solution that incorporates unique technologies optimizing lethality and soldier safety,” Bryan James, CEO of Barrett, said. “The SSRS is a key part of our expanded product line, offering new capabilities that enhance the effectiveness of allied forces on the battlefield.”  

The U.S. Army announced the launch of the PGS program during an industry day event at Picatinny Arsenal in August. As a part of this initiative, Barrett’s SSRS is positioned to play a critical role in shaping the future of soldier weapons systems.  

Attendees of the AUSA Annual Meeting are invited to visit the Barrett booth #3615 to view a model of the MARS xTech demonstration system and learn more about Barrett’s vision for the future of soldier lethality.

B.E. MEYERS & CO. Unveils New 2025 Product Lines At AUSA 2024

Tuesday, October 15th, 2024

October 14th, 2024 (Redmond, WA)B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc., a Defense Technology Manufacturer specializing in advanced photonic solutions for military, law enforcement, consumer, and aerospace applications worldwide, will unveil their new product lines for 2025 at AUSA2024 at the Walter Washington Convention Center, Washington, DC 14-16 October 2024.

• The DAGIR®-V1 and DAGIR®-V2 variants of the DAGIR® Multi-Platform Advanced Laser System, as well as the SAL-UHP Squad Aiming Laser – Ultra High Power program variant awarded by US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) as part of the Miniature Aiming Systems – Laser (MAS-L) contract (H9240324D0009).Based on a revolutionary new digital Vertical-Cavity, Surface Emitting Laser (VCSEL) diode core, the DAGIR® series supports the widest range of platforms and applications that allows for a singular comprehensive solution for advanced night operations.

• The MILR™ Miniature Intelligent Laser Rangefinder, the world’s first ballistically disturbed infrared laser Fire Control System. Based on our proprietary and revolutionary new MINIRVA™ (Mapped Integrated Near InfraRed Vertical-Cavity, Surface Emitting Laser (VCSEL) Array) diode core, the MILR™ supports the widest range of platforms and applications that allows for a singular, lightweight, and comprehensive solution for advanced ranging, aiming, illuminating, and ballistic solutions. Optimized for machine gun use and fully feature capable for precision rifles as well as remote weapon stations, the MILR™ is the only device that enables full day and night ballistic capability from a weapons platform without the use of a clip-on night vision device.

• The VSLAP™ Variable Six Laser Advanced Pointer, a compact high-power near infrared handheld target pointer and illuminator system supporting TACP, CCT, JTAC, SOTAC, ANGLICO, and JFO applications and other air-to-ground integration and communication needs.  Using our proprietary DeathStar™ technology of integrating sixindependent lasers into a single concentrated beam, the VSLAP™ emits up to 1.21 Watts of near infrared pointing/illuminating capability in a variety of continuous wave or select pulse settings.  The VSLAP™ can be adjusted to produce either a tight near infrared pointer or,by turning the beam adjustment collar, combining all beams into a smooth NIR illuminator. This results in undeniable power on target from the palm of your hand.

• The BOARS®-M2.1 Optics and Accessory Rail System, a revised modular mounting solution for the M2A1 series of .50 Caliber Heavy Machine Gun, with alternating upper rail platforms for both MILSTD1913 and Aimpoint® MegaRail™ bases supporting the Aimpoint® FCS-13 and FCS-14 Fire Control Systems.  The BOARS®-M2.1 is extremely rugged and capable of supporting any large optical system on an M2A1 platform during maritime, aviation, or land-based gunnery applications.

• The IZLID® Ultra Airborne Kit infrared pointer system (NSN 5860-01-697-2989) currently adopted by Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) for use on GAU-17 (M134), GAU-19 (M3M), and M240D weapons platforms and others across equipped rotary wing platforms and other aircraft.

• The IZLID® Ultra 24V with Extreme Duty Bracket (EXDB®-UE) is a lightweight, infrared pointing and illumination laser for use with night vision and IR sensors. The IZLID® Ultra 24V with EXDB®-UE is configured for use on the M134 and GAU-19 weapons series. Capable of operating on standard 24V DC power standard for aviation platforms, with a protective shield to guard against impactsduring use and storage while also serving as a heat and debris shield during use. Select IZLID® Ultra 24V EXDB®-UE kit configurations utilize the Unity Tactical® Spade Grip Mount™ for ergonomic control, and can include cabling systems specific to Dillon Aero M134 platforms, Fulcrum Concepts GAU-19 heavy weapon platforms, and other systems upon request.

In addition to these new product lines, B.E. Meyers & Co. will be showcasing their New 2024/2025 50th Anniversary Defense Systems Product Catalog and innovative defense systems product lines including the MAWL®, IZLID®, GLARE®, BOARS®, and KIJI® series of proven high-performance defense systems products. For B.E. Meyers & Co.’s established line of optoelectronic components for unmanned aerial vehicles and other integrated sensor systems, please see their Integrated Systems product catalog.

For sales information on the above mentioned systems as well asother innovative laser solutions from B.E. Meyers & Co., please visit bemeyers.com or connect with us at info@bemeyers.com.

All B.E. Meyers & Co. products are proudly Made in the USA. Systems are available for sale specific to US regulations (FDA, DDTC, BIS, etc.) to respective consumer, law enforcement, and military entities in the US and internationally. 

Mack Defense to Spotlight the Mack MD Electric at AUSA 2024

Monday, October 14th, 2024

ALLENTOWN, PA (Oct. 8, 2024) – MackDefense announced today that it will feature the Mack® MD6 Electric model at its booth at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) 2024 Annual Meeting and Exposition, Oct. 14-16, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C.

“Mack has long been associated with the U.S. Armed Forces, providing support on the battlefield since World War I,” said David Hartzell, president of Mack Defense. “However, Mack, a 124-year-old company, isn’t resting on its laurels. Mack continues to design and develop innovative trucks, like battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) such as the Mack MD Electric, shown here today. We are proud of Mack’s history, and we look forward to our continued innovations in products and services.”

The Mack MD6 Electric model is being shown at booth No. 8333 at AUSA. Developed specifically for medium-duty applications, the Mack MD Electric is built with the same focus on reliability, durability and productivity customers have come to expect from a Mack truck. The MD Electric is available in 4×2 configurations featuring a sharp wheel cut for enhanced maneuverability in tight urban settings.

The U.S. Armed Forces are actively evaluating how electric vehicle technologies can be applied to the variety of vehicles used for logistics and for combat operations. The Mack MD Electric is being used in a myriad of commercial applications providing valuable feedback from users, as well as real-world testing of the various subsystems, such as the energy storage systems, the electric motors, power management systems and the electrification of items such as power steering, A/C and air compressors.

“This experience will allow Mack Defense to utilize these proven subsystems to develop solutions that meet the needs of the U.S. Armed forces,” Hartzell said.

Produced at the Mack Roanoke Valley Operations (RVO) facility in Salem, Virginia, the Mack MD Electric can be configured as a Class 6 or Class 7 vehicle. The Class 6 model has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 25,995 pounds, and the Class 7 model has a GVWR of 33,000 pounds. Both models are exempt from the 12 percent Federal Excise Tax (FET).

The MD Electric features a three-phase Permanent Magnet Synchronous 260 horsepower motor powered by Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) Oxide lithium-ion batteries, rated at 240kWh.

The MD Series cab design features a short bumper-to-back-of-cab (BBC) measurement of 103 inches, an industry best. Similar to the diesel-powered Mack MD Series, Mack matched the bold look and styling of the Mack Anthem®, Mack’s highway model, as a basis for the MD Electric grille and hood design. The Mack MD Electric will be supported by Mack dealers, many of which are already Mack Certified Electric Vehicle (EV) dealers.

The MD Electric will meet the needs of trucking applications requiring dry van/refrigerated, stake/flatbed and dump vocations. The MD6 model does not require a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to operate for non-hazardous payloads.

Mack Defense is a member of AUSA, which has a vision to be the premier voice for American soldiers. AUSA is committed to building the best professional and representative association for the U.S. Army. Morethan 33,000 attendees visited AUSA in 2023, with morethan 650 exhibitors representing 80 countries fromaround the world.

Kongsberg at AUSA

Monday, October 14th, 2024

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – October 14, 2024 – Expansion, investment and technology innovation are the key focus at the AUSA Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C. for Kongsberg Defense and Aerospace, Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace in Norway, as it continues to serve American customers and lead the world in next-gen, digital networked warfare.

Kongsberg’s technological innovation will be demonstrated live throughout AUSA with the company’s Integrated Combat Solutions (ICS) linking a target sharing network across multiple platforms in various partner booths on both levels of Washington Convention Center. ICS is a core enabler of modern warfare, providing all-domain visibility, command and control. This force multiplier streamlines complicated targeting cycles, networking mobility platforms and other assets for increased situational awareness and combat capability, achieved through lethality enhancements, C5I systems integration and inter-vehicle communication. The open and scalable software solution is platform agnostic, as demonstrated throughout the AUSA show floor.

Kongsberg’s ICS is also at the core of the Typhon C-UAS solution delivered to Ukraine earlier this year. The fielded system continues to see operational success in Ukraine with its ability to network multiple RWS and sensors using ICS to allow small units to conduct area C-UAS using readily available weapons and munitions to fire on a single drone for a highly successful and low-cost kinetic solution.

As global interest in counter-drone capabilities continue to escalate, Kongsberg will leverage the Typhon network to develop solutions for different C-UAS problem sets, to include a CROWS C-UAS Kit that could retrofit the thousands of Commonly Remotely Operated Weapon Station (CROWS) already fielded to the U.S. Army on Abrams and Stryker and to support light infantry with existing weapons and munitions such as .50 caliber machine guns or 70mm rockets deployed as APKWS.

Kongsberg also produces the Remote Weapon System for the U.S. Marine Corps Marine Air Defense Integrated System (MADIS), which integrates medium caliber cannons and missiles to provide short-range air defense. This critical system is under contract and moving into full-rate production. Kongsberg has long been the sole provider of remote weapon stations to the U.S. Army, and now the Marine Corps is standardizing on Kongsberg lethality solutions – both hardware and software – specifying Kongsberg remote turrets and weapon stations as well through its MADIS, ACV-P, ACV-30 and ARV programs.

The U.S. Marine Corps Amphibious Combat Vehicle 30mm program (ACV-30) incorporates a medium caliber turret from Kongsberg. The system continues to undergo government testing. Production capacity will be augmented by a recently announced expansion in the company’s Pennsylvania facility.

Two Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV) prototypes will also be on display in the BAE Systems booth. One is equipped with the same Kongsberg 30mm turret as the ACV-30, which could bring significant benefits to the Army and FMS partners in terms of capability, lethality and commonality in terms of training, networked combat CONOPS and sustainment. The AMPV Modular Turreted Mortar System (MTMS), which just completed U.S. Army evaluations at the Yuma Test Center and a successful demonstration at the Maneuver Warfighter Conference will also be displayed. This second prototype integrates the AMPV and common top plate with the Patria/Kongsberg NEMO remote-controlled 120mm turreted mortar system.

Kongsberg is the world leader in remote weapon system production and has served the U.S. Department of Defense for more than 20 years, providing critical remote weapon systems and turrets for land, maritime and air defense programs. All RWS and remote turrets delivered to U.S. customers are manufactured in the Kongsberg Johnstown, Penn. facility and leverage an extensive American supply base. Delivery programs include the MADIS RWS to the U.S. Marine Corps and the CROWS to the U.S. Army. Other deliveries include Naval Strike Missiles (NSM) to the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps and the NASAMS air defense system for protecting the White House and the National Capital Region. The top provider to the U.S., Kongsberg delivers unsurpassed quantities with increased capacity, having recently announced expansion at its Pennsylvania facility and the establishment of a new missiles production facility in Virginia.

OTTO and Freedom Atlantic Unveil WedgeX to Provide Communications Overmatch for the Dismounted Warfighter

Monday, October 14th, 2024

New Tactical Power and Data Communication Solution Aims to Extend Equipment Runtime, Lighten Loadouts, and Simplify Comms Kits Reconfiguration.

Washington D.C. (Oct 14, 2024) – OTTO and Freedom Atlantic are proud to announce the commercial launch of WedgeX™, a revolutionary advancement in tactical communication technology. Designed to transform how warfighters manage their comms equipment, WedgeX introduces a new paradigm in the radio power/datawedge market, offering unparalleled adaptability, simplicity, and extended run-time for frontline operators.

As warfare evolves and battlefields become increasingly decentralized and unpredictable, warfighters face the daunting task of manually optimizing their communication kits to meet rapidly changing conditions. Traditional systems require significant time and attention for equipment management, detracting from the critical focus needed for mission success and survival.

WedgeX addresses these challenges by automating and streamlining comms equipment management. Featuring an advanced modular design, WedgeX enables soldiers to quickly reconfigure their kits based on mission requirements, significantly reducing the physical and cognitive load associated with managing multiple devices and adapters.

“WedgeX is a game-changer for the modern warfighter,” said Ken Jillson, Chief Technology Officer at Freedom Atlantic. “From the start, our mission was to create a communications solution that adapts to the soldier—not the other way around. The WedgeX system actively monitors how soldiers use their equipment and intelligently adjusts power distribution to ensure their most critical gear is operational when they need it most. Our goal is to keep warfighters mission-focused, eliminating the distraction of managing their gear.”

The WedgeX system features a suite of game-changing capabilities:

• Automatic Device Run-time Management: Utilizes advanced algorithms to monitor and manage equipment run-time, prioritize critical devices, and conserve battery life with features like power scavenging and temperature-aware charging.

• Multi-Mission Modularity: A flexible design supporting various mission profiles and power needs, from short-term to extended operations.

• Simplicity: Seamlessly integrates data from tactical devices into a unified, configurable data hub and power controller, eliminating the need for extra cables and adapters.

“WedgeX represents a significant leap forward in tactical communication systems,” stated Dan Stanek, President of OTTO. “By offering automatic run-time management and a streamlined configuration process, WedgeX enhances operational efficiency and soldier survivability. It’s designed to meet the evolving demands of modern combat.”

The WedgeX System comprises two primary components: the WedgeX Radio Power Adapter and the SideLink Modular Radio Hub Adapter. The Radio Power Adapter, installed between the radio and battery, supports existing tactical radios with a MIL-STD twist-lock bayonet-style battery interface. The SiswLink connects the WedgeX, radio data interfaces, ATAK EUD, and external data devices, ensuring seamless integration without the need for additional unnecessary external devices.

Co-developed by OTTO and Freedom Atlantic, WedgeX provides warfighters with a comms overmatch by redefining tactical radio power and data distribution. This innovative solution offers rapid adaptability, extended run-time, and lighter loadouts.

Contact OTTO today for more information or a demonstration.